After nearly 18 years of co-anchoring the Today show, Hoda Kotb is ready to say her goodbyes and embrace her next chapter. On January 10, 2025, Kotb will bid farewell to the morning news program, marking the end of her significant tenure at NBC, where she has become synonymous with the brand. She revealed her decision to leave the show back on September 26, 2024, stating, "I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s painful. And you all are the reason why. I love you and it’s time for me to leave the show."
Kotb, who co-anchored the 7 and 8 a.m. timeslots alongside Savannah Guthrie since 2018, cited her daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine, as key motivators for her departure. "They deserve a bigger slice of my time pie," she expressed, underlining the struggle to balance work and motherhood. The emotional aspect of her decision was palpable; she described it as "the hardest thing in the world," yet felt it was absolutely necessary for her family.
During her visit to The Kelly Clarkson Show, Kotb hinted at her future plans, saying, "I am starting a wellness app and company...something you’ll feel transformed by once you leave." She emphasized her newfound interest in wellness, saying she had been "hooked" on the wellness space after trying various methods she once deemed 'woo-woo.' Now, she feels aiming for wellness will not only help her but also others who engage with her upcoming projects.
"This will be something different than just fun trips with friends," she continued. "I want to create retreats and experiences where people can feel changed afterwards." Kotb envisions her wellness app to launch this spring, fully embracing her mission to promote health and well-being.
Many within the NBC family were taken aback by her announcement, as echoed by sources close to the network, who said, "The news came as a complete surprise." Kotb's last day will not be without celebration, as co-host Jenna Bush Hager announced enthusiasm for the "Hoda-bration" week leading up to her departure, filled with special surprises, including remarks from close friends and colleagues.
Looking back on her extensive career, Kotb first joined NBC back in 1998 as a Dateline correspondent, transitioning to Today as co-host of the fourth hour when Kathie Lee Gifford departed. Her partnership with Guthrie broke new ground as the first all-female anchor duo on network television, illustrating significant cultural milestones. "We asked Hoda to step in initially without thinking we needed another man, and it became the obvious and best choice," Guthrie mentioned. The audience embraced their dynamic, making their pairing even more historic.
Reflecting on her tenures, Kotb noted the guilt often associated with juggling her professional and personal life: "If you want to excel at work, something has to give at home, and if you want to excel at home, the reverse is true." Her shifted priorities come at the milestone age of 60, prompting her to take stock of what really matters.
When asked what her life would look like post-Today, Kotb shared her joy about simple things she now gets to do more of: "I’m going to walk my kids to school. I want them to feel the grass under their feet and run around the yard. It’s all about enjoying those little daily moments, because they do not come back." She anticipated the freedom from waking up at 3 am, saying she is thrilled about the prospect of sleeping in and savoring relaxing mornings with her family.
Craig Melvin will step up to fill Kotb’s shoes alongside Guthrie, taking over as co-anchor beginning January 13, 2025. He has expressed deep respect and fond memories of working together and aims to honor her legacy on the show. Under the new structure, Jenna Bush Hager will co-host the rebranded show, Today with Jenna & Friends, with rotating guest co-hosts until they can name her permanent successor.
Despite her departure from Today, Kotb reassured fans she remains connected to the NBC family and will continue to appear periodically on the network. She also has plans for her Making Space podcast, where she will likely explore more personal topics relevant to her career shift and family life.
Kotb’s decision marks not just the end of her time with the Today show, but the beginning of new reflections about lifestyle, motherhood, and wellness. Her story inspires so many, showcasing how it’s never too late to pursue the life changes we desire and find fulfillment beyond our current roles.
With so much to look forward to on her horizon, Hoda Kotb’s chapter offers encouragement for anyone contemplating their own transitions and values the essence of balance as we navigate work and life.